Nigel Barker Turns Fashion Into Philanthropy

Nigel Barker thinks that fashion can make a difference. Next month at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, the America’s Next Top Model judge will support Nine West Runway Relief: Steps for a Cause. Models will wear limited-edition Nine West boots fitted with pedometers; each step taken will equal a donation to Fashion Targets Breast Cancer.

“I think it’s important that models and the fashion industry do give back, and they’re known for giving back, but this is a great, really fantastic cause and it’s also backed by the CFDA,” Nigel tells OK!. “The fashion industry is known for being fluffy and you know, frivolous, all those things, and so often it is, but also so often it isn’t.”

“I have an auntie who is actually a survivor of breast cancer so it was kind of a nice thing to be part of and then when they were telling us that models could be a part of this and raise money with what we do best which is walking,” Coco tells OK!. “I decided it was a really fun and new idea. Instead of doing the events, the parties, the runway shows; it’s something people really put thought and input into this, so I was excited to be part of this.”

Nigel and the Top Model crew just wrapped up season 15, and the noted fashion photographer and judge feels humbled by the experience.

He also wants fans to get excited for Season 16 of the hit reality show.

“Next season coming up is groundbreaking in many, many ways. Everything is changing. We’ve never had a change in 15 seasons. It’s like huge. So it’s very exciting. I don’t know what to tell you, because I’m not sure if I’ll get killed if I do, but exciting stuff.”